The ozone’s strong oxidizing power allows the gas to oxidize and inactivate numerous organic (phenols, benzene, trihalomethanes, pesticides) and inorganic compounds (cyanides, sulphites, nitrites). Moreover, ozone is able to oxidize iron, manganese and other minerals which, especially if complexed, can be very difficult to remove. At the cellular level, even the major effects of ozone are due to its oxidative power and therefore to the ability to oxidize and peroxidize biomolecules, both directly and indirectly (Khadre et al., 2001). The different bacteria show a variable sensitivity to ozone (cit.), this is the reason why a proper assessment of the variables and the results to be achieved are the basis of a correct and safe application.
